The firs are a genus of about 50 species of coniferous evergreen trees. They have flat, needle-like leaves that are attached to the branch with a base that resembles a very small suction cup. The undersides of the leaves have waxy whitish/grayish lines, and the top sides of the leaf are usually uniformly colored, or close to it, green or silvery-greenish or bluish. The cones of fir trees usually grow upright in a cylindrical shape. They fall apart when they are ready to release their seeds, which are winged.

Fir wood is white and soft and may be sold as "whitewood" boards, not recommended for outdoor use as they decay quickly, but suitable for framing, furniture and whittling. Many species are utilized as "Christmas Trees" because their needles aren't as prickly as other evergreens and they don't tend to drop them as readily.

Several lepidoptera species feed on fir trees.

Some Species of fir

Abies alba silver fir, native to Europe, can reach 160ft in height. Essential oils are extracted from this tree for aromatherapeutic purposes, the leaves, bark and wood was once used for making "spruce beer". A traditional "Christmas tree" fir.

Abies nordmanniana Nordmann fir, Caucasian fir. Native to Eastern Europe. Can reach a height of 250 feet. Young trees are very popular "Christmas trees".

Abies grandis giant fir. Native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, enjoys high altitudes. The inner bark was used medicinally. Has a citrus scent. Used for Christmas trees in the region.

Abies religiosa sacred fir. Native to central and southern Mexico mountainous regions. Local Christmas tree. The preferred resting site for the Monarch butterfly in winter.

Abies koreana Korean fir. Native to South Korea. a popular ornamental tree for gardens

Abies fraseri Fraser fir. Native to the Appalachian region of the US. One of the most popular Christmas trees, often used as the Christmas tree at the White House.

Related species

Fir is most closely related to cedar.
The Douglas firPseudotsuga menziesii is a different genus, not really a fir.

Growing Fir Trees

There are fir trees adapted to many different climates. Choose a species that best suits yours.

Harvesting

Gather resin in the height of summer

Using Fir for Magick

The energy of the fir tree corresponds to the planet Jupiter, and the element Earth. Fir needles can be used as incense to help lift a negative atmosphere. If smoke is not appropriate, try simmering them. The essential oil can be used as well.

Fir resin can be used to "seal" a spell, or as a fixative for any magical craft.

Needles of silver fir may be burned for ceremonies to bless mother and baby. Or wet them and use them to sprinkle water over mother and baby (most birthing centers do not take kindly to burning things in their rooms).